Conservation is the Key is our 18-day environmental community service learning program in the beautiful Florida Keys. Join us as we become PADI scuba certified divers and volunteer with local scientists and conservationists on constructing an underwater coral reef nursery. Putting our passion for marine biology to work, we explore the Everglades and surrounding waters by sea kayak, we swim with dolphins, and we snorkel the fauna rich waters. Click on Read More to learn more about our summer program diving in Florida and how you can make a real, positive and lasting impression on the seascape.

Each student who completes a service program with us will receive a Presidential Volunteer Service Award.

Planting endangered species of coral on some of the world’s most spectacular reefs, scouting wetlands of international significance, kayaking through crystal clear waters and swimming with therapeutic dolphins, the Florida Keys provide a superabundance of conservation and adventure....what could be better?

Surrounded by the National Marine Sanctuary, the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico waters contain the largest coral reefs on the planet and the rarest plant and animal species in the world. One of the most important ecosystems in our country, it is home to manatees, whales, sea turtles, dolphins, seals, crocodiles and hundreds of other endangered species. Unfortunately, as the Keys grow in popularity, damage to the delicate ecosystem increases. Traveling as stewards and conservators of this rare environment, we explore how it has sustained itself for ages - and its future.

First, we obtain PADI SCUBA certification and learn free dive and snorkel techniques. Then, we work with a local Keys expert on a variety of water-based service projects relating to the protection and restoration of staghorn coral around Molasses Reef. Our work includes mounting new coral and expanding the nursery to accommodate future additions to the reef. Weekends take us to Everglades National Park, an International Biosphere Reserve and the only subtropical preserve in North America. Guided by a local conservationist, we’ll explore this area of vast forests, rivers, and cypress swamps by kayak.First, we obtain PADI SCUBA certification and learn free dive and snorkel techniques. Then, we work with a local Keys expert on a variety of water-based service projects relating to the protection and restoration of staghorn coral around Molasses Reef. Our work includes mounting new coral and expanding the nursery to accommodate future additions to the reef. Weekends take us to Everglades National Park, an International Biosphere Reserve and the only subtropical preserve in North America. Guided by a local conservationist, we’ll explore this area of vast forests, rivers, and cypress swamps by kayak.

We work to protect the natural habitat of the turtle population at a hospital where we support the rescue, rehabilitation and eventual release of healthy sea turtles. We learn about the effects of human migration, fibropapilloma and the crisis Loggerhead turtles are facing in the 21st century.

Paddling our way in sea kayaks through North Key Largo, we stop to snorkel the pristine waters famous for their abundance of fish. Our final day is dedicated to a dolphin-assisted therapy clinic serving children with developmental and physical disabilities. We take to the waters and swim with these highly sophisticated and playful marine mammals. Celebrating with one final feast, we know unquestionably, conservation is the key.

Settling In

Arrival in Ft. Lauderdale; transfer to accommodations on Key Largo; orientation and swim tests at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Our Work

Four day PADI Scuba open water diver course; four day underwater service project near Molasses Reef; two day service project removing invasive species of plants.

Our Play

Sea kayak and explore the Everglades and North Key largo; visit the Sea Turtle Hospital; explore Key West; enjoy Bahia Honda State Park; swim with dolphins.

El Fin

Final banquet with our Scuba instructors; transfer to Ft. Lauderdale airport; homeward bound.

52 - 60 Hours of Environmental Service: Coral Reef Restoration, Fish Identification Study, Environmental Service

Dolphin Swim: Key Largo

A Certificate of Service indicating 52-60 hours worked will be issued upon completion of the program.

8 - 12

18

$4,950 - Airfare not included

Ft. Lauderdale, FL